Everyone at the TSA was very saddened to hear of the passing of Olive Lindsell on Saturday 1 August. Olive – a much loved mother to Peter, Joanna and Susie, and wife to Tony – was a pioneer in bringing the TSC community together and was instrumental in the early years of the Tuberous Sclerosis Association.

Joanne, Sue and Olive

When the TSA was in its early years, Olive was an original and committed member, helping the charity to flourish. Back when the TSA was simply a group of families who would circulate an exercise book including experiences and advice to others, Olive helped to connect the community at a time when engaging with others who understood the impact of TSC was much more difficult than it is today.

In Joanna’s words: “I can remember as a young child the book arriving again and being really interested to read the latest updates. My sister, Susie, lives with TSC and was diagnosed at the age of four. Mum and Dad were originally told that she would not survive beyond her seventh birthday, but she has just celebrated her 60th!”

TSA Trustee Tom Carter remembers Olive well: “We have known Olive since the ‘beginning of TSC time’ so to speak, and particularly her daughter Sue. Olive was a very wonderful lady and was so supportive of all that we were striving to achieve.”

The thoughts from everyone at the TSA are with Olive’s family, at what is no doubt a very difficult time.